4 breathtaking temples in Asia

4 breathtaking temples in Asia

Asia is a continent with many different religions and a culture that dates back centuries past. Christianity, Islam, Judaism, Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism and Taoism are just a few of the religions practiced by the people of this vast and diverse continent. Along with this splendid array of faiths come the gorgeous temples in which they are practiced.

1. Angkor Wat
In English, the name of this place of worship means “City Temple.” At one time, it served as a capital city and is currently believed to be the largest temple complex in the world. Angkor Wat sits on a hillside just outside Angkor, Cambodia. It’s stunning architecture is meant to honor Vishnu, a Hindu deity, though it is now a Buddhist temple. Because it has been both a Hindu and Buddhist place of worship, it is one of the few structures in Asia to remain a center of religious importance through time.

2. Taktsang Dzong
This temple is spectacular for many reasons, but its most stunning attribute is that it sits on the edge of a 3,000-foot cliff. Taktsang Dzong is often considered the unofficial iconic vista of Bhutan. The original temple was built around the 17th century, but much of it has been restored due to fire damage. To visit this Buddhist temple, travelers must hike nearly three hours up the mountain, but what awaits makes the journey well worth it.

3. Lotus Temple
Perhaps most renowned for its unique architecture, this aptly named temple was constructed in the shape of a Lotus flower. According to Touropia, Lotus temple is constructed of “27 free-standing marble clad petals arranged in clusters of three to form nine sides.” Here, locals practice the Bahá’í Faith, which focuses on the Oneness of God, the Oneness of Religions, and the Oneness of Mankind. Almost 10,000 visitors come to New Delhi, India, each year to visit this temple.

4. Tian Tan Buddha
Commonly referred to as “The Big Buddha,” this temple is one of Hong Kong’s biggest attractions. Because it was completed in 1990, the Tian Tan Buddha is one of Asia’s newest temples. The Buddha stands 112 feet tall and is surrounded by The Offering of the Six Devas, which are six smaller bronze statues. To visit this temple, travelers must climb exactly 268 steps to the top of the hill. This statue is one of the five large Buddha statues of China, but it is the only one which faces the South.

If you are looking for peace and enlightenment on your travels, consider touring the temples of Asia. On this continent you will have the chance to experience many different religious and see some of the finest religious architecture in the world.